A receding hairline is often thought of as a male concern, but many women notice changes at the hairline and temples too. The causes in women are often different from men's, and some need specific care. This guide covers the most common causes, how they are told apart, and what a provider may consider.
Common causes
Traction alopecia
Repeated pulling from tight ponytails, braids, buns, extensions or weaves can damage follicles along the hairline and temples. Caught early, reducing tension can help. Over a long time, the damage can become permanent, which is why early changes to styling matter.
Female pattern hair loss
Female pattern hair loss usually causes thinning along the part and crown while the front hairline is often preserved, but some women do notice changes at the temples. It is gradual and often hereditary, and hormones can play a role. See female pattern hair loss.
Frontal fibrosing alopecia
This is a scarring form of hair loss that causes a band-like recession of the front hairline, often with loss of eyebrows, most commonly in postmenopausal women. Because scarring hair loss can be permanent, it needs prompt in-person evaluation by a dermatologist.
Hormonal changes
Menopause, PCOS and thyroid conditions can all affect hair. See hormonal hair loss in women.
When to see a dermatologist in person
- A smooth, shiny band along the hairline, or eyebrow loss
- Redness, scaling, itching, burning or pain along the hairline
- Sudden or rapidly progressing loss
- Patchy bald spots
These can point to scarring or inflammatory conditions that need a scalp exam and sometimes a biopsy.
What a provider may consider
Treatment depends on the cause. For traction alopecia, the first step is reducing tension on the hair. For female pattern hair loss, options a provider may consider include minoxidil or, for some women, anti-androgens such as spironolactone, which must not be used during pregnancy. A personalized compounded topical formula is another option some providers use. Compounded medications are prepared by a licensed pharmacy for an individual patient and are not FDA-approved.
Hair changes slowly, and providers typically evaluate response over months rather than weeks.
Next step
If your hair loss is gradual and you want a licensed provider to review it, start your online consultation. If you have any of the warning signs above, see a dermatologist in person first.
Prescription required for prescription treatment. A licensed provider decides whether treatment is appropriate. Compounded medications are prepared by a licensed pharmacy for an individual patient and are not FDA-approved. Individual results vary. Prescribed Essence currently serves patients in California, Colorado, Florida and New York.
